when going home is murder

Words of wisdom and sound advice for all citizens and residents - wherever in the world you find yourselves.

"Everyone in this town—this country—is so afraid of the other, whoever the ‘other’ is today. If there’s one thing fear can do, it’s make a beast out of a shadow. It turns us all into monsters. The enemy of the shadow isn’t light. It’s sight.”

In other words, if someone says, “Don’t look,” don’t listen.

Bruce DeSilva, winner of the Mystery Writers of America’s Edgar Award, reviews the debut novel “Jackal” by Erin E. Adams.

The places we know best are the ones that pose the greatest threat. When the main character in this novel returns to her hometown after a long absence, mysteries — past and present — collide.

In her breakthrough novel, Erin E. Adams transcends the typical hometown mystery with an effective blend of social and supernatural terrors that build in intensity and mystique throughout. 

Liz’s first-person narration accentuates the emotional stakes of what’s happening in Johnstown, drawing readers in as they sympathize with her plight.

“Jackal” is a terrifying tale of the fears and hatreds generated by racism and class inequality - and of the monsters these fears and hatreds have created. The novel shares the sensibilities of Jordan Peele’s film “Get Out,” but Adams brings to it a depth possible only in books. 

Ocean Vuong | undertow & upheaval

Breathing easier in a more expansive and hopeful world is a real joy and delight. Especially after the past four years of waiting for the proverbial other shoe to drop. 

What we believe, how we show up - each moment defines who we are and how we live our lives. With the Trumpian error hopelessly dead and gone, we can now turn to better and brighter interactions. 

We need more sage!

At Biden's inauguration, youth poet laureate Amanda Gorman paved the way for many of us to learn and love the beauty and power of well constructed and definitive language. 

book review of Mia Alvar's "In the Country"

While back in the Philippines for a recent two month visit, I brought this book to read on the flight.

It got such raves that I was eager to read what this new breakout author had to write about our country, its diverse people and its many differing circumstances.